Susan Dewhirst, PR and Goodness Programs Manager for Tom’s of Maine, says the national program is meant to recognize grassroots programs throughout the country.

She says one finalist was chosen from each state, and one from Washington DC, from among the hundreds of entries.

Each organization had to be a 501c3, operating with a budget of two million dollars or less. Dewhirst says another criteria was the organization’s work with volunteers on grassroots efforts in their community.

"It’s a non-profit organization working to unite and strengthen vulnerable neighborhoods. At no cost, they work with at-risk, low-income and special needs members of the community. And they are working to prevent homelessness by building community essentially.”

Six non-profits won awards in the contest with InCOMMON getting the $50,000 grand prize after a four-week public vote.